Matt Hardwick Retires

Last week British trance DJ/producer Matt Hardwick decided to turn off the mixer and hang up his cans as he moves down a new career path. Here is what he had to say on his forum:

After spending most of my adult life traveling the world and playing at the world’s leading club events and festivals, I have decided to call it a day and hang up the headphones for good.

As some of you will recall, and as a result of other commitments in my life, last year I decided to pull back from full time touring. Whilst the intention then was to continue to play key selected events and festivals, it has since become apparent to me that I now have to commit all of my time and energy to the alternative career choice I have made.

I have enjoyed an amazing career during the halcyon years of dance music culture, I have traveled to every corner of the globe and have met some fantastic people along the way. I can honestly say that I feel privileged and honored to have been a part of a great scene. I have never had aspirations beyond just playing music and having some fun along the way.

I’d like to thank every person who ever came down to see me play and showed support for what I do. It has meant the world to me.

I have retained 3 further dates in my diary. There will be Glastonbury on 26 June and then my final UK gig will be the Ministry of Sound the following week on 1 July, with the curtain closer in Moscow the following night on 2 July. I will however continue fully with my commitments on the A&R front and generally with Kill the Lights.

Once again, thanks so much for your support over the years and hopefully I’ll catch up with some of you on the dance floor at some point in the future….

I never had the change to hear Matt spin live, but I did enjoy his Live As mix albums with John Askew as well as his Resident Transmission compilations. He is commonly affiliated with the Gatecrasher imprint, and this is where he established his skills early in his career. Matt regularly played in all of the UK’s popular clubs, and his success eventually launched him into the international spotlight. It’s interesting to note that Matt used to be a footballer before he took up DJing, so it’s not surprising this talented guy is once again shifting gears through life. Thanks Matt for all of the music you put out, I will always appreciate a good mix and you had no problem providing them. Here is a shining example of some of Matt’s best work, his Essential Mix from 2002. Thank you Narcism for the set.